Merci Train Tours

On June 6, 1944, Allied forces launched Operation Overlord—the codename for the massive Allied invasion of Normandy, France—with more than 150,000 troops. Ending with approximately 20,000 casualties on both sides, those who took part witnessed one of the most pivotal battles against Axis forces and the beginning of a prolonged, costly, and ultimately successful campaign to liberate northwest Europe.

To commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day—a day now known as the greatest amphibious landing in history, stop by Manchester between noon and 2:00 p.m. to tour the Merci Train! (Le Train de la Reconnaissance Française)

The boxcar is located 20 yards from the corner of Reed and Bremer Streets in Manchester's historic West Side.  This boxcar, filled with gifts from the different regions of France, was given to NH by the French people as a "thank you" for the US support during World War II. It stands as a symbol of the longstanding France-US relationship that continues to this day.

The building housing the boxcar will be open to the public from 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Guided tours will be held at 12:15 p.m., 12:45 p.m. and 1:15 p.m. and are free and open to all.

Learn more about the history of the Merci Train from members of the 40 & 8 Society, a special veterans group that maintains and promotes this living history museum.

Tours are limited to 15 participants so register today!

Can't attend the June 6 tours?  Private tours are available!

Contact Tony at travia11@comcast.net for more information or to schedule a tour.

For more info about the Merci Train, visit Mercitrain.org